And it is one the best parades ever! The weather was great. There are 3 500 participants from over New Zealand. Among the most popular characters: Kermit the Frog and Miss Piggy giant inflatables, Thomas the Tank Engine, a new Beginning of Time Dinosaur float, new Nutcracker Float, the Lost Boys, Captain Hook, entertainment groups galore. The old characters include Clifford the Big Red Dog, Geronimo Stilton, Pinkfong & Yellow Shark, Peter Rabbit, Moe, Queen Elsa, Farmers Santa Bears, Where’s Wally? and more! And Santa himself wishes you Merry Christmas!

Pre-parade: 12pm – 1pm

Parade: 1.00pm – 2.30pm

Santa’s Party: 2:30pm – 5:30pm

The parade started at the corner of Federal St and Mayoral Dr and then moves near Aotea Square and then down Queen St. The parade ends in Customs St East and is followed by Santa"s Party from 2.30pm at Aotea Square.